Dietetic Internship Program
VA St. Louis Health Care System Dietetic Internship
Comments from our graduates
At the VA St. Louis Health Care System, we pride ourselves on the care we provide to Veterans and the experiences we offer our interns. Employers praise our graduates' ability to prioritize, problem-solve, and think critically. Read below to see what people are saying:
“My dietetic internship at the St. Louis VA was an incredibly rewarding experience. The wide variety of rotations helped me build confidence and competence in so many areas of dietetics. I loved having the chance to work one-on-one with experienced dietitians who supported me while also giving me the freedom to grow independently once I was ready. The support from my preceptors and internship director was amazing—I truly felt set up for success. I left the program feeling well-prepared and excited to start my career as a dietitian.”
-Jessica Barr, Class of 2025 (Bloomer, WI)
"I feel that my favorite part of the internship was knowing that I was not alone. Whether it was the other interns, you, or preceptors, I always had someone to lean on for answers to questions or help. I did not intend to land a job right out of the gate but feel that the reason I did is because I was prepared for not only the interview but was seen as someone who would be ready to step into the role right away with the training that the St. Louis VA provided me.”
-Kierra Cox, Class of 2025 (Denver, CO)
“The VA St. Louis Dietetic Internship truly exceeded my expectations. The variety of rotations exposed me to many career opportunities and helped me discover my interests. The small cohort size allowed the opportunity for individualized support, and I appreciated the emphasis on post-internship career development. Lastly, the guidance from my preceptors played a key role in both my personal and professional development. This program provided me with everything I needed to successfully step into my career as a dietitian.”
-Sophia Duffy, Class of 2024 (Rutland, VT)
"My dietitian internship at the VA was an outstanding, well-rounded experience that exceeded my expectations. The program was highly interactive, providing invaluable one-on-one opportunities with knowledgeable preceptors. I was consistently challenged to grow and refine my professional skills, and the welcoming staff served as excellent resources who truly facilitated my learning. The internship was organized and completed in a timely manner, and I feel thoroughly prepared to begin my career as a dietitian. I am very grateful for the comprehensive training and supportive environment provided at the VA."
-Shannon Graham, Class of 2023 (New Port Richey, FL)
This internship was incredibly comprehensive and provided me with practical skills for inpatient, outpatient, and leadership. It provided excellent exposure to a variety of clinical specialties, with hands-on experience. The small group size allows for individualized education and experience with 1:1 mentorship. Now that I am in a leadership role myself and have my own interns come through, I can really see how exceptional the VA internship experience is. I feel like I came out of the program significantly more prepared than most entry-level RDs. Would highly recommend to anyone seeking a comprehensive, hands-on experience to prepare them for entry into a career in dietetics.
-Marissa Collier, Class of 2018 (Moscow, ID)
“I find myself bragging about my internship experience in St. Louis. I feel extremely lucky to have had such a well-rounded internship. I am able to bring ideas and a different prospective to my current job based off of the things I learned during the internship.”
-Emily Willems, Class of 2016 (Macomb, IL)
"In reviewing other internships attended by fellow RDs, I feel my internship was of higher quality than their internships. The St. Louis DVAMC is a rigorous program which enabled me to perform at a higher level at my first job as a dietitian. The preceptors at the St. Louis DVAMC were excellent! By attending a VA internship, I discovered that the VA was my preferred employer. Being a VA intern greatly improved my chances of getting a dietetic position at the VA. I LOVE working at the VA as an outpatient dietitian --best job ever!"
-Gloria Treis, Class of 2015 (Mead, WA)
“Rotations and classes were organized very precisely. This alleviated stress and allowed us to focus on modules and assignments. Our director helped keep us focused by consistently checking in with us and answering questions. She was very organized and supportive throughout the internship. All preceptors were supportive and able to guide us through the required experiences and modules.”
-Joel Ramdial, Class of 2012 (Cape Girardeau, MO)
Comments from employers of our graduates
“I am very impressed with your program.”
-Employer of a 2016 graduate
“Keep up the great work!”
-Employer of a 2020 graduate
“I am very pleased with preparedness of your graduates.”
-Employer of a 2023 graduate
